I was really exposed to great old-time literature - the classics, the poetic realists like Strindberg and Ibsen and all those guys. I was really inspired by all those guys. That's when writing became a primary focus.

Also in autumn 2008 Sutter created and executive produced a new series for FX entitled Sons of Anarchy. Sutter also directed "The Revelator". He became an executive producer for the sixth season in 2007 directed a promotional mini-episode for the sixth season entitled "Wins and Losses" and wrote the sixth season premiere "On the Jones".

He worked as a producer writer and director on The Shield also appearing on the show as hitman Margos Dezerian. Sutter's wife actress Katey Sagal is also one of the show's lead actresses. Sutter is also the creator of Sons of Anarchy on FX and writes produces directs and performs for the series wherein he plays incarcerated club member Otto Delaney.